Takya Browning

Augusta Pride: June 26-29

This is the fifth year of the Augusta Pride festival! As we move forward in our community’s fight for equality, I want to take this time to acknowledge the fact that we are celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.

This is a time of reflection for those who remember and a time of learning for those who don’t. I’m a firm believer that in order to know where you’re going, you have to know where you came from.

There was a time when law enforcement would raid lounges and bars that were frequented by LGBT patrons. The patrons were regularly harassed and arrested. We live in a world where gay bars have gone from a safe haven to a party place for all. We live in a world where it was unheard of that two people of the same sex would be married. The ban against same sex marriage is being struck down one state at a time. The tide is turning. For the young people and for those who want to have a better understanding of what our LGBT brothers and sisters have gone through in the past, do your research and get involved. Know that we don’t march just to be seen and have a party. We march to bring awareness to the fact that while much has changed, there is still much work to be done.

As we stand at the door of the five-year anniversary of Augusta Pride and the 45th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, let’s not forget the shoulders that we stand on. Thank you to Audre Lorde, Harvey Milk, Bayard Rustin, Edie Windsor and countless other people who have lent their voices to fight for equality. It is up to us to continue their work. : :

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Augusta Pride Schedule

Friday • June 27

On Friday night, the public Festival will begin in the Augusta Common with Beats on Broad – Augusta’s hottest outdoor dance party!

6 p.m. – Gates Open

7 p.m. – DJ KAOS

9 p.m. – Miss Augusta Pride 2014 Vonnajae Couture

9:30 p.m. – Evonne Santoni

10:15 p.m. – Latrice Royale From Ru-Paul’s Drag Race

11:15 p.m. – Chad Michaels From Ru-Paul’s Drag Race

11:59 p.m. – Park closes

Saturday • June 28

Saturday kicks off the Main Event, an all-day Festival downtown. The Festival begins with the Pride parade at 10 a.m. Arrive early to get the best view. Parking is available on Reynolds are on Broad St. itself if you get there before the streets close for the parade.

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